FIRST CHILDREN, FIRST NATIONS COLLABORATIVE (FCFN)
A collaborative journey empowering Tribal Nations to create sustainable, culturally aligned Indigenous childcare systems — designed by the community, for the community.
The Challenge
Childcare is the foundation of thriving Indigenous families and communities.
Yet in many tribal nations, tribal childcare systems are under-resourced, misaligned with culture, or shaped by outside models that don't reflect Indigenous values.
This leaves families without access to safe, affordable, culturally grounded care — and tribal leaders without the tools to build sustainable systems that serve their people for generations.
First Children First Nations changes that.
Our Solution
The First Children, First Nations Collaborative (FCFN) is a partnership between All Nations Rise and First Children's Finance that leads the design of Indigenous child care systems in Minnesota.
Through this process:
Tribal Leaders designate an Indigenous Core Team (ICT) to guide the work.
Communities collect data, share stories, and identify their own needs.
Together, we create a Tribal Child Care Community Action Plan designed by the community, for the community.
ANR and FCFN provide coaching, technical assistance, and implementation support throughout the entire process.
This approach ensures that every solution reflects Indigenous culture, family realities, and long-term community priorities.
The Impact
When tribal nations lead their own Indigenous child care solutions, the results are transformative.
Culturally grounded systems that reflect community traditions and values.
Sustainable child care capacity that meets families' real needs.
Skilled local leadership equipped to manage and grow child care programs.
Connection to a national Learning Network where tribal communities share insights and innovative practices.
Long-term impacts are healthier children, stronger families, and Indigenous child care sovereignty honored for generations.
This isn't a quick fix. It's a proven process that builds durable, culturally aligned child care systems for tribes designed to last for generations.
Tribal Community Child Care Solution Action Plans
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Fond Du Lac Community Solution Action Plan
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Cansayapi Wakanyeża Awayancapi Wócun Lower Sioux Indian Community Childcare Community Solution Action Plan
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Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Community Solution Action Plan
GET INVOLVED
Rooted in Culture,
Led by Community
Supporting the First Children, First Nations Collaborative helps Indigenous children grow up in safe, loving, culturally rich environments while returning decision-making power to tribal nations. Whether you're a tribal leader, caregiver, policymaker, or funder, you can help ensure a child's first systems of care are grounded in culture and love.
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